🐟 Yellow Spotted Hypostomus - (Hypostomus margaritifer) – Hardy and Attractive South American Pleco
The Yellow Spotted Hypostomus (Hypostomus margaritifer) is a robust and eye-catching freshwater pleco native to South America. It is named for its dark brown to black body adorned with golden-yellow spots, which stand out beautifully in aquariums. Known for its durability, algae-eating habits, and adaptability, this species is a great choice for aquarists looking for both function and beauty.
In the wild, it inhabits rivers and streams with moderate to strong current, and in aquariums, it thrives in setups with plenty of driftwood, rock caves, and open swimming space.
🔎 Quick Facts – Yellow Spotted Hypostomus
😇 Behavior & Temperament
🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements
💧 Water Parameters
🍽️ Diet – Omnivorous with Herbivorous Preference
📋 Overview Table
Feature | Details |
---|---|
🌍 Origin | South America (Brazil, Paraguay) |
📏 Max Size | 10–12 inches |
😇 Temperament | Peaceful algae grazer |
🏠 Tank Size | 75+ gallons |
⚗️ pH Range | 6.5–7.8 |
🌡️ Temperature | 74–82°F |
🍽️ Diet | Omnivorous – algae wafers, vegetables, protein |
🎯 Ideal For | Large community aquariums & South American setups |
✨ Highlight:
The Yellow Spotted Hypostomus is a hardy, attractive pleco that combines striking golden spots with useful algae-cleaning abilities, making it a functional and decorative addition to large aquariums.